Adkins v. Lazarus Coal

Case Background

Abram Adkins filed an employment retaliation lawsuit against Lazarus Coal for his wrongful termination after making a worker’s compensation claim after being injured on the job. The lawsuit was filed in the Circuit Court of Pike County, Kentucky. Judge Howard K. Hall presided over this case. [Case number: 23-286]

Cause

Abram Adkins worked as an underground coal miner for Lazarus Coal, earning $36 per hour as a roof belt operator. He typically worked between 48 and 53 hours per week and began his employment in August 2022.

On February 16, 2023, a falling rock struck Adkins’ arm, causing a laceration. He received treatment and stitches at Pikeville Medical Center. Afterward, he performed light-duty work on the night shift for a few days. When he returned to regular duty on February 23, 2023, Lazarus Coal informed him that he had been laid off. That same day, Adkins secured a job with another coal mining operation.

Damages

If Adkins won at trial, he sought $20,000 in lost wages. He could also recover damages for emotional distress.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal Representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Abram Adkins
    • Counsel for Plaintiff(s): Nathan D. Brown
  • Defendant(s): Lazarus Coal
    • Counsel for Defendant(s): Lawrence R. Webster

Claims

Adkins sued Lazarus Coal, claiming the company retaliated against him for seeking workers’ compensation. His strongest evidence was the timing—Lazarus Coal fired him just days after his injury.

Defense

Lazarus Coal denied firing Adkins in retaliation, insisting it was a layoff. The company claimed it chose Adkins because he had the least seniority. Bennie, the mine supervisor, also stated he did not know Adkins had filed a workers’ compensation claim. However, Adkins argued that two other miners with less seniority kept their jobs.

Jury Verdict

The jury ruled in Adkins’ favor, finding that Lazarus Coal fired him for seeking workers’ compensation. It awarded him $8,000 in lost wages but denied damages for emotional distress. The court entered a judgment consistent with the verdict.

Court Documents:

Documents are available for purchase upon request at jurimatic@exlitem.com